PRISM programme

 

 

PRISM

Promoting Relational and Inclusive Support for Neurodivergent Minds

PRISM (Promoting Relational and Inclusive Support for Neurodivergent Minds) aims to develop, implement and sustain relational and trauma-informed care interventions that improve healthcare experiences and outcomes for children and families with ESSENCE-aligned profiles.

PRISM programme

Why It Matters

The study responds to sensory, communication, relational and regulatory needs that can place neurodivergent children at risk of distress, re-traumatisation and inequitable healthcare. It promotes care centred on safety, dignity, participation, inclusion and partnership with children and families.

Project Approach

Grounded in the EPIS framework

 

E

Exploration

P

Preparation

I

Implementation

S

Sustainment

Grounded in the EPIS framework (Exploration, Preparation, Implementation and Sustainment), this multi-phase project uses qualitative, quantitative, participatory, co-design, implementation science and realist approaches across public and private paediatric healthcare settings.

Expected Contribution

The wider PRISM programme seeks to generate neurodiversity affirming clinical guidance, practical implementation strategies and a sustainable model to strengthen healthcare team competence, reduce distress and medical trauma, and improve child and family experiences.

Possible Student Research Areas

Opportunities for postgraduate research within PRISM

 
1

Evidence synthesis on relational and trauma-informed care and family challenges

2

Healthcare professionals' practices, experiences and perspectives

3

Co-design and evaluation of contextually relevant clinical guidelines

4

Implementation and realist process evaluation in paediatric hospital settings

5

Design and evaluation of practical intervention toolkits

6

Sustainability, institutional integration and interprofessional capacity building

7

Development and evaluation of a sustainable practice model

 

Interested in Joining the Study?

Dr Suegnet Scholtz

Principal Investigator, PRISM

For more information, contact Dr Suegnet Scholtz, Principal Investigator of the PRISM project.

Telephone: 016-910 3564 

Email: Suegnet.Scholtz@nwu.ac.za